A rising NHL prospect has been offered a unique opportunity to live with a veteran player and his family ahead of his rookie season, providing him with firsthand experience of professional hockey life. The arrangement follows an invitation extended to the top draft pick in the upcoming 2026 NHL Entry Draft, allowing him to immerse himself in the sport’s culture before turning pro. The move aims to ease his transition into the league by offering guidance and support from someone with extensive experience. Details on how this living situation will shape his development remain to be seen as he prepares for the challenges of joining the NHL.

Tavares and his family have invited McKenna, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, to move in with them in his upcoming rookie NHL season. To that end, the 18-year-old got a taste of things to ...